Star-Ledger file photoAssemblyman Jerry Green has begun calling his colleagues to line up support to succeed Sheila Oliver as the top member of the Assembly if she runs for Congress.

TRENTON — Although he’s not sure if Assembly Speaker Sheila Oliver will run for Congress, Assemblyman Jerry Green has begun calling his colleagues to line up support to succeed her as the top member of the Assembly in case she does.

“It’s been brought to my attention that as speaker pro-tem, the bylaws basically say if (Oliver) resigns and moves on that I become speaker,” said Green (D-Union). “So I wanted to make sure that the members were ok with that, rather than the bylaws being the only reason I become speaker.”

Oliver (D-Essex) is on the shortlist of potential candidates to succeed the late U.S. Rep. Donald Payne, who passed away last week. Payne’s son, Donald Payne Jr., is said to be the leading contender if he wants it.

Although she’s mentioned frequently for the seat, Oliver has not said if she wants the position. She could not immediately be reached for comment.

“Let’s put it this way: I want to make sure the caucus is satisfied with me if that is the case,” said Green. “I want to be more than just confident by the bylaws. I want to be confident that the majority of the members of the assembly would be satisfied with me.”

The time frame is short for Oliver and other potential candidates to decide if they want to run for Congress. Petitions to enter the June primary are due April 2.